Think about how, when, and where you’d like to use the vacuum. Then, examine the important features offered by Shark to determine which product is right for you. If you don’t own pets and need a hand vac only for the occasional spilled Cheerios or coffee grounds, buy the Black+Decker Dustbuster AdvancedClean CHV1410L. We’ve recommended the CHV1410L since 2017, and in our most recent round of testing, it proved once again to be one of the best basic handheld vacuums available—with a few caveats.
The Shark Cordless Pet Perfect XL LV901 Handheld Vacuum has a powerful extra-large pet brush that successfully removes pet hair. It includes a crevice tool and has a power adapter with a separate docking station. The accessories can often make all the difference in the value of a vacuum. Each model comes with a few extra accessories, but all the tools we list are not compatible with all models. Decide which tools will work best in your situation and choose a shark stick vacuum that includes those.
Those looking for a machine that operates equally well on tile should spring for the more luxurious Shark Stratos or utilitarian Cordless Pro. A. shark stick vacuums may have one or more standard filters, but they don’t include HEPA filters. The color really doesn’t affect performance, but it can certainly boost your mood or provide a seamless look with your full-size vacuum. Shark’s handheld vacuums range in weight from 1.4 to 4.0 pounds. Everything in that range can be considered lightweight, but if you have limited mobility or strength in your hand and wrist, an ultralight model might be best for you. To find the best handheld vacuums from Shark, it helps to read a comprehensive buying guide.
Go The Extra Length with the BLACK+DECKER™ 20-volt MAX dustbuster® AdvancedClean+™ Cordless Pet Hand Vacuum. The HoLife HM036E and the Shark WANDVAC are two cordless handheld vacuums with different strengths. While both are similarly well-built and decently easy to maintain, the HoLife is better on bare floors.
The Wandvac, when fitted with a nozzle accessory, has the suction to rival my Shop-Vac. The floor nozzle is there to help you comfortably glide it across the floor. Get into the habit of recharging your shark stick vacuum hand vac after every use. Each model has an indicator light that lets you know when the battery is fully charged and ready to go. This handheld-stick vacuum is a great choice for small households.
In order to assess overall performance, we opted to test a handful of different debris. These include cornflakes, glitter and real human hair (yes—really!). We tested each on tile, high- and low-pile carpet (aside from hair, which was only tested on carpet).
BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation® and its mission to help save homeless pets. We’re proud to design products that help make pet messes, odors and pet homelessness disappear. The CRAFTSMAN® V20 Cordless Handheld Vacuum provides strong suction power in a compact design. With up to 45 CFM you can tackle clean up around the job, workshop or garage with ease. Clean hard to reach or narrow areas with a crevice tool that is stored on the bottom of the tool. Two-stage filtration maintains strong suction power, even as the large bowl fills with debris.
The Dyson has fewer parts that require regular maintenance, is equipped with a larger dustbin, has a suction power adjustment feature, and comes with a motorized turbo brush. It also performs better on bare floors and high-pile carpet. Meanwhile, the Shark is a little lighter, feels better built, and does a better job clearing pet hair and fine debris like baking soda from low-pile carpet. The Shark WANDVAC is a better-performing handheld vacuum than the BISSELL AeroSlim/TurboSlim.